City of Kissimmee Hosts Masonic Cornerstone Dedication Ceremony at Public Safety Training Center

The City of Kissimmee held a Masonic Cornerstone Dedication Ceremony on Thursday for the Public Safety Training Center for Police and Fire. The event, attended by over 60 Free Masons from across Central Florida, was conducted by the local Orange Blossom Lodge No. 80 F&AM Representatives alongside the Grand Lodge of Florida. The ceremony was led by Masonic Grand Master Donald W. Cowart.

The dedication was marked by speeches from prominent local officials, including Kissimmee Mayor Olga Gonzalez, Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland, and Kissimmee Fire Chief Jim Walls. Each speaker emphasized the critical role of the Public Safety Training Center in enhancing the skills and preparedness of the city’s emergency responders.

A Masonic Cornerstone Ceremony symbolizes the principles of Freemasonry: charity, integrity, and community service. These ceremonies have been a tradition for centuries, often marking the beginning of the construction of significant public buildings. The cornerstone is seen as a symbol of strength and permanence, reflecting the building’s intended role as a foundation for the community’s safety and well-being.

The Kissimmee Public Safety Training Center is designed to provide comprehensive training programs for both police and fire departments. Police Chief Betty Holland highlighted the state-of-the-art facilities and advanced training techniques used at the center. During her speech, she also honored the memory of Sgt. Sam Howard and Officer Matthew Baxter, who were fatally shot in the line of duty on August 17, 2017.

Fire Chief Jim Walls, who began his career with the Kissimmee Fire Department in 1987, also spoke about the center’s importance. He emphasized how the facility will serve as a hub for continuous improvement in emergency response skills, ensuring that the city’s first responders are well-prepared to protect the community.

Mayor Gonzalez expressed her gratitude to the Free Masons for their participation and underscored the city’s commitment to public safety.

The Public Safety Training Center stands as a testament to Kissimmee’s dedication to the safety and security of its residents, providing a place where police officers and firefighters can receive the highest level of training to serve and protect the community.